Patagonia Tours & Travel

The remote region of Patagonia sits at the bottom end of South America, across Chile and Argentina. Despite its vast size – over 1 million square kilometres – Patagonia remains one of the most isolated territories in the world, home to less than 2 million people. This roughly equates to around two people every square kilometre.

Starting in Chile’s Araucanía region – and Argentina’s Rio Negro province, just across the Andes – and stretching down to the southern tip of South America, Patagonia is home to a remarkable landscape; think snow-capped mountain peaks, craggy rock outcrops, desolate steppes and imposing glaciers and icefields. The incredible national parks – some of the most remote, diverse and beautiful in the world – make Patagonia a haven for trekkers and adventure-seekers alike. Patagonia tours or treks should definitely be on the bucket list of any adventure traveller.

Bariloche

A temperate introduction to Patagonia is in Bariloche, set on the glacial Nahuel Huapi Lake – reportedly inhabited by a Loch Ness-type monster – and surrounded by soaring peaks and Valdivian rainforest. It’s also the chocolate capital of Argentina; wander along Mitre Street and pop in and out of shops to sample some of the sweet, dark, milky wares on offer!

Perito Moreno Glacier

Hop back across the Andes ranges to the world’s most famous glacier: Perito Moreno. At 250 square kilometres, the immense glacier has an average height of around 75 metres above sea level, but plunges to depths of 170 metres. The spectacle here isn’t solely relegated to its breathtaking appearance either; the thunderous cracks, as chunks of ice break away from the glacial edge, are equally tremendous, as are the splashes and crashes as the ice hits the water. Walking circuits around the flank of the glacier are available to visitors, as are hikes across the ice. Our guides provide you with crampons, to prevent any icy wipe-outs

Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine, around 1600 kilometres south of Bariloche, is part of Chilean Patagonia. The national park consists of looming mountain ranges, aquamarine lakes, rivers and glaciers and is dominated by the soaring granite pillars for which the region is named (Towers of Paine, for those playing along at home). Clearly marked paths and trails abound, with a number of different trekking options available; from moderate day trips to active expeditions that last several days.

Have boots, will trek

Patagonia provides some of the finest trekking routes in the world, from mountain trails to glacier hikes. A walk in the Bariloche Mountains will take you through the immense coihue, alerce and larch trees of the Valdivian rainforest, with rewarding views of the remote glacial fjords and secluded waterfalls.

What to take to Patagonia

Weather in Patagonia is extremely unpredictable; it can be warm and sunny one minute, then teeming with sleet and freezing winds the next – even in summer. It’s important you’re prepared in order to have a trip that’s memorable (for the right reasons). The key to staying warm is layering; aim to pack quick-drying T-shirts and long-sleeved tops, thermal leggings (to wear under pants), jumpers, a warm jacket, a wind- and water-resistant jacket and waterproof hiking boots. Beanies, gloves, scarves and thick socks are also essential!